Relation of repeated low-level blast exposure with symptomology similar to concussion.
Publication Status: Published
Sponsoring Organization: Defense Health Agency (formerly TRICARE Management Activity)
Sponsoring Office: Walter Reed National Military Medical Center
Congressionally Mandated: No
Funding Source: Undetermined
Release Date/Publication: January 01, 2015
Principle Investigator Status: Government
Primary DoD Data Source: Other Survey
Secondary DoD Data Source:
Abstract
OBJECTIVE:
To investigate anecdotal reports suggesting that repeated exposure to low-level explosive blast has myriad health impacts, including an array of neurological effects.
PARTICIPANTS:
A total of 184 anonymous survey respondents from military and nonmilitary law enforcement populations (135 exposed to occupational blast and 49 controls).
DESIGN:
Survey of self-reported history of occupational exposure to repeated low-level blast (breaching blast) and symptomology similar to concussion.
RESULTS:
Findings suggest that number and severity of symptoms increase with history of chronic blast exposure (F = 18.26, P < .001) and that symptoms can interfere with daily activity (t = 2.60, P = .010).
CONCLUSION:
Given the prevalence of repeated exposure to blast among some military and civilian law enforcement occupations, the results of this survey study support a role for blast surveillance programs as well as continued research on health impacts of low-level repeated blast exposure.
Citation:
Carr W, Polejaeva E, Grome A, Crandall B, LaValle C, Eonta SE, Young LA. Relation of repeated low-level blast exposure with symptomology similar to concussion. J Head Trauma Rehabil. 2015 Jan-Feb;30(1):47-55.